The John Thompson trained  filly Longport is likely to clash again with Norzita in the Flight Stakes after gaining victory on protest in the Group 2 $175,000 Coolmore Tea Rose Stakes (1500m) at Randwick today.

Longport (pictured on the inside) has gained victory in the Tea Rose Stakes on protest over Norzita. Photo by: Steve Hart

Jockey Jim Cassidy was quick to fire in a protest against Norzita when second past the past in a tight finish and stewards agreed that Corey Brown had shifted in over the final 80m on Norzita and upheld the objection.

Master trainer Bart Cummings will still aim for another Group 1 victory with Norzita after the filly put up a gallant effort only to be beaten in the stewards’ room.

Norzita and Longport showed plenty of toughness over the final 100m and will now head towards the Group 1 $400,000 Flight Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on October 6.

Even though Norzita has been up for long time, stable foreman James Cummingssaid that the Thorn Park filly will more than likely head to the Flight Stakes.

“It was a very tough effort. The horse has been up for a long time now,” Cummings said.

Cassidy was convincing in the stewards’ room and even though the interference was slight, Cassidy was able to sway the decision his way after telling the hearing that he was forced inwards three or four horses in the run to the line.

Favourite Dear Demi was always near the tail of the field and even though she ran home strongly for James McDonlad, the Clary Connors trained filly failed to pull back any ground from the placegetters and wound up in fourth spot.